If you have ever tried removing fake nails on your own, you know that it can be painful and damaging if you don’t do it the right way. While there are lots of perks to having beautifully manicured dip powder nails when you’re not able to get to a salon for whatever reason — like, say a global pandemic — it’s nice to have the option of flaunting your natural nails without all the damage that is sometimes left behind after removing the fake ones.
When done in a salon, workers usually use a substance called acetone for easy removal. The problem with acetone is that it is a very powerful chemical that is actually terrible for your nails and cuticles. But the good news is, it’s not the only option! There are some natural ways to safely remove your dip powder nails at home without harsh chemicals and with minimal damage to your natural nails.
We’ve rounded up some hacks for safe, at-home removal, so check them out. Here are 4 tips for removing fake nails at home:
Tip 1: Buy acetone-free remover
It’s true! Not all nail polish removers include acetone. A non-acetone nail polish remover usually has propylene carbonate, isopropyl alcohol, and ethel acetate. Even though these are still chemicals, they are a lot less harsh than acetone. It will take you a little longer to remove your nails at home with this, but your fingernails and cuticles will thank you because they won’t be so dried out.
Tip 2: Soak in warm water
If you really want to get away from harsh chemicals or find yourself allergic to them, you can always use warm water. Just fill a bowl and add a drop of soap. Let your nails soak for about 20 minutes and then try to carefully remove them. If you find they are still tightly adhered, go ahead and soak them for another 10 minutes.
Tip 3: Use cuticle oil
Cuticle oil is another safe and nourishing way to remove your dip powder nails. This is probably one of the best methods because you are healing your natural nails while you are removing the fake ones. The best way to do this is by soaking a Q-tip in the cuticle oil and then applying it to your nail for five minutes. You want to make sure it is getting under the nail where the glue is positioned. Another option is to soak a cotton ball in the cuticle oil and tape it to the nail for a few minutes.
Tip 4: Try dental floss
Using dental floss is a creative way to remove your fake nails at home. But it really only works if they’ve loosened a bit. If they haven’t, you can try one of the methods above first. Just know that this isn’t something that you will be able to do on your own. You will want to have someone help you by positioning the floss underneath the nail and moving it back and forth until it pops off. It will likely cause a little damage, so be sure to buff and apply cuticle oil afterwards.
No matter what method you employ for removing fake nails at home, there is likely to be some wear and tear on your natural nails. It is often recommended to take a break in between sets so that you can give them time to heal. A few ways to do this is to keep your nails short to avoid breakage. Buff your nails to get rid of any bumps or ridges left over from your fake nails, and if you find your nails bend easily, you can apply a strengthening top coat. You will also want to apply cuticle oil or aloe vera to your nails regularly.